What to Do If You’re Charged With a DUI in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is a tough city to drive in. It’s a maze of confusing streets and sloppy intersections, and our fellow drivers are not exactly known for their skill or their tact. And, then, you’ll encounter the many traffic and law enforcement agencies in the area, all quick to pull over drivers and hand out steep tickets and even criminal charges — not all of which are deserved. It’s tough driving in D.C., and you could land in hot water easily, whether you deserve to or not. If you’ve been charged with a DUI, then you know a thing or two about this.

Being charged with a DUI is an upsetting experience. It’s bewildering and humiliating, and it leaves a person in an unusual and unfamiliar position. Few of us know what we should do after being charged with a DUI — and, to make matters worse, what we do after a DUI arrest can matter enormously to our futures. So be careful, and read on to learn what you should do if you are charged with a DUI in Washington, D.C.

Take the test

Alcohol is broken down by your body over time. Wait long enough, and it will be virtually impossible to know if someone was drinking. So, if you’re pulled over for a DUI, why not just refuse the test?

Because it’s illegal, unfortunately. Turn down an alcohol test, and you’ll be punished by the law. So, while you should be careful about how and how much you cooperate with the police, you do have to take this basic step.

Keep quiet

You have probably heard the Miranda warning on TV: “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law.” This is an important warning, but you won’t get it until you’re actually arrested — and the police will be sure to chat you up before then, hoping that you’ll say something incriminating.

You should be polite to the police, but you shouldn’t be sharing much information with them. The police aren’t talking to you because they think you’ll help your own cause; it’s quite the opposite. The more you talk, the more likely you are to say something that can help the police build a case against you. This is every bit as true for innocent people as for guilty ones, so do yourself a favor: No matter what, never talk to the cops.

Call a DUI attorney

Arrested for a DUI in D.C.? Then you’ll need a dc dui lawyer. A DUI is a serious charge that can have far-reaching consequences for your career, your reputation, and your personal life. It’s vital that you turn to an expert who specializes in DUI law in the Washington, D.C., area.

You have a lot of things to worry about moving forward. You may have to post bail, you’ll almost certainly have hearings coming up soon, and you will, of course, have to make a plea and either cut a deal or defend yourself. On your own, some of these things will be tough, and others will be impossible. With an attorney who understands your case and all applicable laws, you’ll be in an infinitely better situation.

Working with your attorney, you can define your priorities and fight for the best possible outcome. Your attorney can help you fight to keep your career, your reputation, your driver’s license, and your assets. A DUI should not be the end of the world. With the right expert in your corner, it won’t be.